Ruby Rose Calls Playing Batwoman a ‘Win’ for LGBT Community

Ruby Rose was cast in August to play Batwoman in DC Comic’s upcoming Arrow, Supergirl, and The Flash crossover event, and per usual, the Internet has had plenty to say on the matter. Backlash on social media regarding this casting decision came from all ends of the discrimination spectrum. Some were angry that Batwoman will be openly gay, some wanted a Jewish actress, and some just went straight for her acting ability.

But one criticism in particular got to Rose above the rest: the claim that she should not be playing the character because she is not actually a lesbian. This ultimately prompted Rose to quit Twitter and delete her account.

“Where on Earth did ‘Ruby is not a lesbian therefore she can’t be Batwoman’ come from,” Rose tweeted just before leaving Twitter. “I came out at 12? And have for the past 5 years had to deal with ‘she’s too gay’ how do y’all flip it like that? I didn’t change. I wish we would all support each other and our journeys.”

But despite the trolls, Rose, who openly identifies as queer and gender-fluid, still believes that playing the role is a step forward for the community. In an interview with Australia’s TV Week magazine, Rose stated, “It fulfils my life mantra of, ‘Be the person you needed when you were young.’”

And she’s right. An openly gay lead will fill one of many major voids in Hollywood, and especially in superhero entertainment, when it comes to LGBTQ representation. If this crossover event is successful, Rose will play the character again in a new Batwoman series, which is currently in development for the 2019-20 season. If the series gets picked up, Batwoman will be the first openly gay lead in a live-action superhero TV show.

“I can’t speak on behalf of everyone in the LGBTIQ community,” Rose said, “but I know any win for anyone in our community is a win for all.”

The three-night crossover will air on The CW starting Dec. 9 on The Flash, Dec. 10 on Arrow, and Dec. 11 on Supergirl, all at 8 P.M. ET.